Spirits Reunion

Spirits Reunion was commissioned in 2024 by Obama Junior High School Wind Ensemble in Unzen City, Japan. It premiered as the ensemble's free-choice piece at the All Japan Band Competition. The piece was crafted to highlight the individuality of each performer. The title, Spirits Reunion (Sosui Genso in Japanese), is an invented phrase that evokes the rich natural landscape of the Obama region. This composition draws inspiration from a variety of themes, including natural and emotional landscapes. One major motif is the Shoro Nagashi, a traditional Buddhist ritual held during the Obon season to honor deceased ancestors. Families create handcrafted boats, carry them through the streets, and set them afloat to guide the spirits to paradise. The ritual is both solemn and vibrant, with elements such as chants and firecrackers. These lively aspects are reflected in the latter part of the piece. The work is structured in three movements - I. Green, II. Memory, and III. Soul-which are performed without pause. Each movement explores a distinct musical mood while seamlessly transitioning from one to the next: I. Green: This movement portrays the natural beauty of Nagasaki Prefecture, including the geothermal springs and scenic vistas for which Obama is famous. II. Memory: Evoking a journey through recollections, this movement mirrors the reflective nature of the Shoro Nagashi. It represents a family's memories of their loved ones as they walk through the streets, expressed through serene and tender musical themes. III. Soul: The final movement is vibrant and celebratory, inspired by the festive aspects of the Shoro Nagashi. It embodies an energetic resolve to move forward into the future, encapsulating both remembrance and renewal. While these themes align with the composer's intentions, listeners and performers are encouraged to imagine their own interpretations of the music. This is the third work commissioned by the Obama Junior High School Wind Ensemble. It follows Murasame (2022) and Azalea (2023), creating a trilogy of pieces that reflect the cultural and natural heritage of the region. Percussion Notes The piece features traditional Japanese instruments. When these are unavailable, substitute instruments are provided to allow flexibility. Players are encouraged to select suitable alternatives for a seamless performance. Timpani and Japanese drums: The score includes parts where a single performer alternates between timpani and Japanese drums. Plan instrument placement for efficient transitions. If Japanese drums are unavailable, the timpani part alone is sufficient. Tsukeuchi: A traditional theatrical technique involving "tsuke-gi" (wooden sticks) and a "tsuke-ita" (wooden board). Aim for resonant wooden materials for authenticity. If unavailable, instruments like claves can be substituted. With its rich thematic layers and flexibility in instrumentation, Spirits Reunion invites performers to craft a performance that balances tradition with personal expression.

(Daisuke Ehara)